Vulnerability factors

Children from all kinds of backgrounds can become radicalised. Here are some of the common factors to look out for that make them vulnerable.

As a parent, it’s likely you’ll recognise any of these factors or changes in behaviour before anyone else, and will be able to use your judgement to know whether your child is vulnerable. The following behaviours are a guide and it’s important to remember that anyone can be affected by extremism:

Struggling with a sense of identity

Distanced from their cultural or religious background

Difficulty fitting in with British culture

Questioning their place in society

Family issues

Experiencing a traumatic event

Experiencing racism or discrimination

Difficulty in interacting socially, lacking empathy or not understanding the consequences of their actions

Low self-esteem

Any of these issues make children more susceptible to believing that extremists’ claims are the answer to their problems.

External factors play their part too, such as: community tension, events affecting the country or region where they or their parents are from, or having friends or family who have joined extremist groups. Exposure to one-sided points of view all contribute to the process of radicalisation.

Those children involved with criminal groups, or who have found it difficult to reintegrate after being in prison or a young offender institution, may also be at risk.